Encore November 2021

Specialty Sleepovers

On Board with Charcuterie

November 2021

The Best 'Breweriana'

Meet Mike Artis

Southwest Michigan’s Magazine

Cannabis Country

Pot Cultivation Is Budding in SW Michigan

Got Arts? We do!

New Arts Section Page 26

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ENCORE EDITOR'S NOTE

From the Editor M

arijuana was legalized in Michigan for recreational use in 2018, and I'll admit, as a near-Boomer, it's taken me a little time getting used to it. Since I grew up during the years of Reefer Madness and D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) programming, there are still moments when I catch a whiff of someone's cannabis when I am out in public and feel like I’m witnessing a crime.

There's no doubt that the use of cannabis has become more mainstream — we have numerous dispensaries in our area, people openly vape and smoke in public, and, just the other day, I heard a group of women at lunch talking about their flavor preferences for cannabis-infused gummies. So when writer Chris Killian suggested a story about the growers that are making our region the state's agricultural hub for cannabis cultivation, I was intrigued.

Chris reveals that the industry is still very much evolving, encompassing very large grow operations just north of Bangor as well as cottage-type farms that might even be next door to you. But the industry is here to stay, and how this new cash crop will impact our community and the region's economy is still very much a work in progress.

In anticipation of the upcoming holidays, we also have two festive stories written by our editorial intern Maggie Drew. In one, we learn about a local business that is making dream sleepovers a reality for kids and adults alike. In the other, Maggie looks at the charcuterie trend that has inspired one couple to open The Grazing Table, a charcuterie restaurant in downtown Kalamazoo.

You'll also see our newly expanded section on The Arts, which features a lot of great performances and events to take in this month. I hope you will support our wonderful arts organizations as they re-emerge and that you will do so safely and kindly.

Have a wonderful month, and thank you for reading Encore!

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Specialty Sleepovers

On Board with Charcuterie

The Best 'Breweriana'

Meet Mike Artis

Southwest Michigan’s Magazine

November 2021

Cannabis Country

Pot Cultivation Is Budding in SW Michigan

Got Arts? We do!

New Arts Section Page 26

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CONTENTS

N o v e m b e r 2021

FEATURE Cannabis Country

Growers of all sizes are making SW Michigan a hotbed for marijuana farming

20

DEPARTMENTS 3 From the Editor 6 Contributors 7 Five Faves

Chris Moore raises a glass to 'breweriana' artifacts

10 First Things A round–up of happenings in SW Michigan 12

Enterprise

16

Savor

38

Back Story

Sweet Dreams — Local company creates dreamy sleepover parties for kids and adults Good Grazing — Charcuterie is taking meat and cheese platters to a whole new level

Meet Mike Artis — The Civic's new director of volunteers is no stranger to the stage

ARTS 26 The Arts

Spotlighting greater Kalamazoo's arts community

Theater 26 28 30 31 31

Music Visual Arts Dance Comedy

32 Poetry On the cover: A grower tends to a marijauna plant at an indoor grow operation in Van Buren County.

Photo by Brian K. Powers.

33 Events of Note

w w w.encorekalamazoo.com | 5

CONTRIBUTORS ENCORE

Maggie Drew

Maggie, our intern at Encore, has two stories in this issue. Her first is about Sweet Dreams Kalamazoo, a company that puts together customized sleepovers for adults and kids. "I think this business is so fun because the owner gets to be a part of celebrations constantly, no matter the occasion," says Maggie. Maggie also wrote about charcuterie and a new restaurant in Kalamazoo focused on this creative food trend. "I knew what charcuterie was prior to writing this story, but this is really taking it to the next level," she says. Maggie is a senior majoring in journalism at Western Michigan University.

Chris Killian You can't help but notice cannabis dispensaries popping up all over Southwest Michigan, which got Chris wondering: Where is all the marijuana on their shelves coming from? His curiosity led him to learn that Southwest Michigan is "a hotbed in the statewide cannabis game, at farms large and small. It’s become so integrated into the culture here so quickly that people of all types are now growing cannabis as their livelihood, and what was once kept under cover and dealt in dark alleys is now much more transparent,” says Chris, who wrote this month’s cover story. Chris is a Kalamazoo-based freelance writer.

Julie Smith

Contributor Julie Smith and her three children have all had the pleasure of working with the man who’s the subject of this month’s Back Story, Mike Artis, of the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre. Artis is typically the first face to greet volunteer actors and stagehands at the door and the last to say goodnight after a long rehearsal.

Smith says she was nervous returning to the theater after a 25-year absence, but Artis convinced her she could do anything and entrusted her with running the lightboard for the 2019 season opener. “Nobody calls a show like Mike Artis,” says Julie, who interviewed him for the Back Story.

“Whoever fills his position as production stage manager as he moves to director of volunteers has some big shoes to fill but will be lucky to step into a well-oiled machine.”

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ENCORE FIVE FAVES

Five Faves

Top 'breweriana' picks from the Cone Top Brewery Museum

BY CHRIS MOORE

I

n the early to mid-20th century, regional breweries built awareness for their brands with such art as motion beer signs, back-bar chalkware sculptures, factory lithographs, tap handles and more. To collectors, this memorabilia is affectionately known as “breweriana” — a reminder of good times, craftsmanship, regional Americana and, of course, iconic long-forgotten beers. When The Mill at Vicksburg's $80 million restoration project is completed in 2024, it will include the Cone Top Brewery Museum, which will tell the story of American beer and its role in our culture and feature one of the country's most extensive breweriana collections. Here are five of my favorite artifacts from the museum's collection.

City Union Brewery Tray c. 1900 Made by Chas. W. Shonk Co., Chicago

T

his metal tray, used by servers to carry drinks to tables and depicting a scene of monks being served beer and eating, was created for City Union Brewery in Kalamazoo. The brewery was owned by Alfred George “Fred” Neumier and a partner, Steven Zanda, of Detroit. The brewery operated from 1896 to 1904 at 823 Lake St. By April 1899, the brewery was producing approximately 140 barrels per day; in 1901 it built a new brick brewhouse and ice machine and cellar. In 1904, City Union Brewery became The Kalamazoo Brewery. Three years later, Numier died at age 65. He is buried at Riverside Catholic Cemetery.

Drewrys ‘It’s an Extra Dry Beer’ Neon Sign c. 1940s

This

Art Deco-style glass and neon sign was manufactured

by Allison Sign Manufacturing Inc. of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and designed to be displayed behind a bar. Talented craftsmen painted the design in reverse on the back of the glass. The Drewrys Brewery was established in 1893 in South Bend, Indiana, and for many years was one of the largest breweries in proximity to Kalamazoo. During the years of Prohibition (1920–1933), that plant was fully shut down.

It reopened in 1933. The first case of Drewrys Ale produced after Prohibition was shipped to President Franklin D. Roosevelt because of his support for repealing Prohibition. In 1963, Drewrys merged with Associated Brew Co. of Detroit. In 1972, G. Heilman Brewing of Wisconsin purchased and kept the Drewrys name, but the company closed the South Bend plant later that year. w w w.encorekalamazoo.com | 7

FIVE FAVES ENCORE

Bullet Lights c. 1930s & 1940s

B

ullet lights or shield lights, which were very popular during the 1930s and 1940s, were brand advertisements displayed on the back bar of drinking establishments.

They were produced by Cincinnati Advertising Products Co. (also known as Blue Ribbon Displays) and feature an image painted in reverse on a curved piece of milk glass illuminated from behind by a light in the base. Bases were produced out of wood, plastic and metal. Most bullet lights depict a freestanding bottle or cone-top can with the brand's tagline. These displays ultimately proved to be fragile, making them highly sought by collectors because of the limited numbers of them that have survived.

Cook’s Vitrolite Glass Corner Sign

Pre-Prohibition Made by George Meyercord of Meyercord Co., Chicago, Illinois

M

eyercord Co., founded in 1896, specialized in the decalcomania process, taking customers’ designs and firing them onto white glass at 1,800 degrees in a device called the “Vitrolite.” This Cook's sign was made by Meyercord for Cook & Rice City Brewery, in Evansville, Indiana, which was opened by Frederick Washington Cook and his stepfather, Jacob Rice, in 1853.

By 1855, the partnership dissolved and Cook opened F.W. Cook Brewing Co. in Evansville. The brewery’s brewhouse and offices were destroyed by a fire on Dec. 3, 1891, and rebuilt by 1893. In 1905, a fire destroyed much of the plant yet again. After Cook died in 1913, his son Henry ran the brewery until his own death in 1929. It was then handed off to Henry’s younger brother, Charles Cook. In 1955, after operating for 102 years, the brewery stopped production due to labor disputes. It was torn down to make way for Evansville's Civic Center Complex in 1965.

E&B 103 Wooden Sign

Hand-painted on plywood/pressboard

T

he E&B Brewery was started in 1873 as the Ekhardt & Becker Brewing Co., and the brand was associated with Regal Brewing Co. and Schmidt Brewing Co. from 1944 to 1962. The E&B “Brew 103,” featured in this sign, was produced from 1944 to 1962, the year Pfeiffer Brewery and E&B merged.

This sign was removed from the brewery building at 1551 Winder St. in Detroit,

by Edward Greaney, the lead architect on a project converting the building into loft-style condominiums in the 1970s. The sign, which is believed to be one of a kind, contains the “&” mark used in the company's logo only from 1944 to 1954.

The sign remained in Greaney's personal collection and was acquired from his estate.

8 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

Evaluation & Care of Trees and Shrubs

About the Author Chris Moore, a native of Vicksburg and resident of Seattle, owns Paper City Development, the owner of The Mill at Vicksburg. He also owns Concord Technologies and Old Stove Brewing, both in Seattle.

Moore grew up in and was deeply formed by the small village of Vicksburg, where his family has been woven into the fabric of the village since the 1840s. Devoted to his hometown’s past, he studies the history of Vicksburg and yearns for the village to reclaim its economic luster. He wants downtown Vicksburg to be significant and vibrant, restored to its historic character, and bustling with growing businesses, residents and visitors.

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FIRST THINGS ENCORE

First Things Something Innovative Dixon's Violin to play at Bell's A

former technology leader and symphony violinist, Dixon walked away from a distinguished career to invent a whole new music genre and to inspire others. He has done so by giving Dixon’s Violin performances throughout the world, including for more than 10 years at Burning Man and three TED talks/performances.

Kalamazoo audiences can see Dixon for themselves when he performs at Bell's Eccentric Cafe at 8 p.m.

Nov. 13. A classically trained violinist, Dixon now improvises on a five-string electric violin with a looper to create an all-live one-man symphony.

Grand Rapids singer/songwriter Patty Pershayla will open the show.

Tickets are $18 in advance or $20 the day of the show and available at bellsbeer.com/events/cafe and Bell's General Store, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave.

Something Soulful Ledisi to perform at State Theatre

Grammy Award-winning R&B singer Ledisi, described by Rolling Stone as a “vocal athlete,” will bring her many talents to the Kalamazoo State Theatre Nov. 4.

Ledisi’s career spans two decades. She won a Grammy in 2020 for her single “Anything for You,” has been nominated for 13 Grammy Awards and 11 NAACP Image Awards and has won three Soul Train Music Awards and an NAACP Theatre Award. She also has received two L.A. Alliance Ovation Award nominations, one of them for Best Featured Actress in a Musical.

Tickets are $49–$59 and available at kazoostate.com or the theater's box office, 404 S. Burdick St. Proof of Covid-19 vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test is required for entry.

Something Colorful

Hike and learn about autumn leaves Trees here are beautiful in autumn, and for those who are curious about why, there's a Portage Parks ranger who can tell you on Nov. 14.

An event called “Ranger Hike: Fall Colors,” presented by Portage Parks and Recreation, will provide a guided hike through South Westnedge Park, 9010 S. Westnedge Ave., to examine fallen leaves and explain the special process trees go through to prepare for winter. The hike begins at 2 p.m., and registration is required.

To register or for more information, visit mypark.portagemi.gov.

10 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

Something to Celebrate

Holiday parade returns to downtown Get those candy-collecting hands ready because the annual holiday parade will be rolling

through downtown Kalamazoo this year, starting at 11 a.m. Nov. 20.

The nearly 60-year-old holiday tradition, now named the Maple Hill Holiday Parade, features balloons, floats, bands and, of course, Santa and Mrs. Claus. The event is being planned and managed by the Maple Hill Auto Group, which took over ownership of the event from the Downtown Kalamazoo Partnership when it was announced by DKP that the parade would not be held in 2021. Maple Hill Auto Group has been a sponsor of the event for 23 years.

The parade will follow its traditional route, west on Lovell Street from Jasper Street to Park Street, up Park to Michigan Avenue, along Michigan to Pitcher Street, and then down Pitcher back to Lovell.

For more information, visit kalamazooholidayparade.org.

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Something Informative Expert to discuss autism

A look at autism from the perspective of ability, not disability, is the theme of an online talk titled “Kaleidoscope Eyes: A Different Perspective on Autism, Art and the World,” to be presented by Dr. Joshua Diehl at 6 p.m. Nov. 4.

This talk complements the Kalamazoo Valley Museum's exhibit Expanding Scott's World: A Journey of Autism Through Art, which is on display through Jan. 2. Diehl will discuss how autism represents a different way of processing the world and how that difference leads to both talent and areas in need of support.

Diehl is the chief program officer for Child & Adolescent Services at Logan Community Resources in South Bend, Indiana, and has received recognition for his research, teaching and clinical work in the field of autism.

While the program is free, registration at kalamazoomuseum.org is required. The Zoom link will be emailed to those who register by 2 p.m. Nov. 4.

Talk to a professional.

Something Fun

Mystery Science Theater 3000 comes to town Fans of hanging out with friends and watching a cheesy movie while bots yell stuff at the screen will be thrilled to know that they'll have the chance to do just that Nov. 16 when “Mystery Science Theater 3000 Live: The Bubble Tour” lands at the State Theatre.

This live version of the cult classic Mystery Science Theater will feature returning cast members of the MST's 2019 “Great Cheesy Movie Circus Tour”: Emily Marsh, Conor McGiffin, Nate Begle and Yvonne Freese, along with those movie-riffing robots Tom Servo, Crow and GPC. The show will riff on the 1985 film Making Contact, which features a psychic child, animated toys and an evil ventriloquist dummy.

The show begins at 7 p.m. General-admission tickets are $32.50–$196.50 and available at kazoostate.com or the theater's box office. Proof of Covid-19 vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test is required for entry.

Please note: Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, some of these events may be canceled or changed after press time. Please check with venues and organizations for up-to-date information.

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ENTERPRISE ENCORE

Sweet Dreams

Local company creates sleepover parties for kids and adults

BY MAGGIE DREW

Sleepover parties are a staple of almost

Right: Sweet Dreams Sleepovers Kzoo owner Alicia Jensen. Below: Tipis in the "Boho Chic" theme await sleepover guests.

Brian Powers

every childhood: a time for friends to eat, watch movies, play games, and goof off together while parents toil frantically behind the scenes.

But one local company is offering to take on the details — from preparation to cleanup — while creating memorable sleepover moments.

Sweet Dreams Sleepovers Kzoo (SDSK) creates themed sleepovers. The work includes setting up the special bedding, decorations

and food and taking it all down when the event has ended.

Alicia Jensen, 36, of Vicksburg, the founder and owner of SDSK, says she was looking for ideas for a sleepover for her own child when she discovered a similar company based in the U.K. and thought she’d create an event rental business here.

12 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

ENCORE ENTERPRISE

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ENTERPRISE ENCORE

SDSK offers rentals for several types of events, including bridal showers, outdoor camping and adult sleepovers, but sleepover parties for children are what have caught the most attention from customers, Jensen says. The company offers these children’s sleepovers for kids ages 4 and up.

SDSK provides beds, tipis and decorations like pillows and balloons that match the sleepover's theme. Jensen says the most popular theme for kids’ sleepovers is Tik Tok, which includes the video sharing site's logo and colors as part of the décor. Other themes include the video game Among Us, a movie night, and a rose-gold motif.

Jensen says she gets ideas for party themes from her two middle-school-age kids — usually whatever is popular at the time — as well as from customer requests.

“Usually whenever I add something it’s because a customer expressed interest in it,” she says. “Someone will ask, ‘Do you have this?’ and I’m like, 'No, but we can!'”

Rates for sleepovers are based on how many beds are needed or how many people will be attending. One to three tipis cost $75 each, a party for four is $250, and each additional tipi is $50. Jensen will also arrange for food if requested and set it up at the party. If the party is more than 60 miles from Kalamazoo, Jensen offers a "party in a box" and will ship all the needed elements (except food) to the customer, who ships it back after the sleepover.

Carmel Stauffer, of Kalamazoo, recently threw a sleepover for her daughter’s ninth birthday and used SDSK after finding out about the business through Facebook.

A dreamy sleepover is all in the details including specialty decor and linens, such as these seen here.

“My daughter’s birthday was coming up, and we had lots of end-of-the-school-year activities, so I was trying to look for something with a lower commitment on my end,” Stauffer says. “It was great to see that they did all the setup and teardown. It’s really no effort on your part, which I loved.”

Stauffer went with the “Boho Chic” theme for her daughter's sleepover — a trendy design that includes twinkle lights, flowers and other natural elements.

“Because her setup is so beautiful, you don’t really have to do any other decorating,” Stauffer says. “She does it all for you.

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“It was a unique way to celebrate my daughter's party, since last year with Covid we couldn’t have a real party. I thought this was a nice way to have something in the comfort of my own home with just a few friends. I felt really good about that.”

Jensen often collaborates with other local vendors to pull off her themed parties, which has been a boon for those businesses.

“I’ll have parties for people new to the area and they’ll ask, ‘Do you know where I can get these things?'” she says, referring to items she has sourced, including food and desserts. "I’ll refer them to other local businesses. Being from this area, I know the place’s reputation; I can vouch for them. It's cool that I get an opportunity to also provide business to other local places in the area.”

While she aims to provide joy to others through SDSK, Jensen says running the business has brought a lot of joy into her own life. Not only has she been able to spend more time with her own children, who often assist her with parties, but she also gets gratification from the positive reviews her parties receive.

“I love getting a review afterwards where people are giving feedback that ‘my kid had the best birthday ever.’ … There's nothing I like better than receiving photos of a party of mine with all these kids having a such great time.”

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SAVOR ENCORE

16 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

ENCORE SAVOR

Good Grazing

Charcuterie takes meat and cheese platters to a new level STORY BY MAGGIE DREW PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN K. POWERS

Listen up, holiday party planners. Those simple meat and cheese

and veggie platters are no more. They've been replaced by their more upscale, art-conscious cousin: charcuterie.

Charcuterie isn't new. It has been around for centuries. The technical definition of the French term is a platter of cured meats.

But in recent years, thanks to social media, charcuterie has taken on new forms that include a combination of foods, including meat, cheese, fruits and vegetables, all artistically arranged on a wooden board or other surface. It's become as much about how the board is designed as what is on it to eat.

The charcuterie phenomenon prompted a Kalamazoo couple in October to open The Grazing Table, a restaurant at 402 S. Burdick St., that specializes in the artistic gastronomical creations.

Above: The Grazing Table owner Jenna Gamrat, center, serves charcuterie selections to customers, clockwise from far left, Hannah and Landon Talmadge and Scott and Sam Misar. Left: Charcuterie boards that look too good to eat.

Joey and Jenna Gamrat discovered their passion for charcuterie almost by accident. The two became engaged to marry, and then the Covid-19 pandemic hit. Jenna’s bridal shower was canceled, but Joey still wanted to do something special for her to celebrate, so he made her a charcuterie board. They both really enjoyed it, so Jenna jumped in, and the two kept making them. Eventually friends would compliment their charcuterie skills and ask them to make custom boards for them.

“I thought, ‘I've never done that, but, sure, I'll give it a go,’” Joey says. w w w.encorekalamazoo.com | 17

SAVOR ENCORE At the time, Joey was working at Trader Joe’s (Jenna is a professional photographer), but charcuterie became a passion for the couple. Learning from tutorials online and trial and error, the Gamrats upped their charcuterie knowledge, learning what foods pair well on a board and ways to display them.

The more charcuterie boards they made, the more encouragement they received to take their talents to the next level.

“We began to just test it with friends and family, and then it really started getting big within the last five months or so, to the point where we're like, ‘This is a thing we can do. We can make this work,’” Joey says. “We started considering me quitting my 9-to-5 if we got a shop. Then we just decided to go full steam ahead and make it happen, so it has been very much a win. It really started as a hobby at first. Then we realized just the potential that it had.”

“Because it was just becoming so big, we wanted to take it to the next level, so we began looking for storefronts,” Jenna says.

They found one in the former location of Tibbs Brewing Co. and got to work on making Clockwise from left: The Grazing Table owners Jenna (left) and Joey Gamrat; some of the wares available in the restaurant's shop area; a wheel of cheese makes a beautiful centerpiece on a charcuterie board; and the The Grazing Table's location on the corner of Burdick and Lovell streets.

Holiday charcuterie must-haves from The Grazing Table Charcuterie boards are ideal for entertaining. Here are Jenna and Joey Gamrat’s recommendations for holiday-season charcuterie boards: • Cranberry cinnamon goat cheese (available at Aldi, Trader Joe’s and Meijer) • Brie cheese covered in chocolate bark (available at Trader Joe’s) • Peppermint chocolates/candy canes • Baked brie with brown sugar, pecans or cranberries • Cinnamon apple slices • For Thanksgiving, apple or pumpkin butter, brie, fig butter, caramel corn and hot and sweet peppered salami • Herbs to fill spaces

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the shop a reality. In addition to selling charcuterie for dine-in customers, The Grazing Table will also offer grab-and-go boards, meats and cheeses, and other items created by local businesses and by small businesses from around the country.

“We want it to be a place for everyone to feel welcome and comfortable,” Jenna says. “It will be a calm, chill atmosphere. We want it to feel like the vibe of a coffee shop.”

The pair also plan to offer workshops on creating charcuterie boards.

“Yes, I want people to come buy our boards, but what I want most is for people to fall in love with charcuterie so much that they feel like they can do it at their house with their family or their friends,” Joey says.

The "intentionality" of charcuterie is part of its appeal and burgeoning popularity, say the Gamrats, noting that the time it takes to design and make one shows that the creator put in effort to make something special. It also allows people to showcase and share their creativity, especially through social media.

“Social media, I believe that’s the key today,” Joey says. “There are just so many tutorials available online, and that’s how I feel like we’ve learned along the way.

People want to share ‘I did this, or I made this.’"

w w w.encorekalamazoo.com | 19

C

annabis ountry

Growers of all sizes are making SW Michigan a hotbed for marijuana farming

Brian Powers

BY CHRIS KILLIAN

20 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

Off a dirt road in rural Van Buren County, two hoop houses rise from a sea of cornfields,

their interiors obscured by a covering of cloudy plastic tarp. Such hoop houses are not an unusual sight in this agricultural area, but what’s inside isn't a traditional crop for the area.

It's one of the state's fastest-emerging cash crops: marijuana.

Marijuana plants with names like Wedding Cake, Gelato, Rose and Super Boof rise to almost touch the 15-foot ceilings. This is a legal medical marijuana grow facility with about 70 plants just weeks away from being harvested by a cannabis farmer named Bonnie, who works full time here. (For privacy and security reasons, “Bonnie” is a pseudonym, as is the name of another grower, “Justin,” who also appears in this story.)

It’s been 13 years since Michigan's medical marijuana law went into effect and only three years since the state's recreational pot law was passed, but Michigan has become the thirdlargest market for cannabis sales in the nation, behind California and Colorado.

w w w.encorekalamazoo.com | 21

From large-scale commercial farms with thousands of plants to cottage-type growing facilities in basements and pole barns, Southwest Michigan has become a growth area in this surging market. In particular, Van Buren County has become a sort of emerald triangle for cannabis farming — within a two-mile radius of the intersection of M-43 and County Road 215 there are three large commercial cannabis farms that by the end of this year will be capable of producing more than 30,000 plants. There are also several smaller operations in that area.

From trimmer to grower Clockwise from above: Bonnie, a grower, tends to the medical marijuana plants she grows in hoop houses; cannabis plants getting close to harvest; and a worker trims buds in preparation for distribution.

She started working at grow stores, gaining knowledge about nutrients, lighting and other products related to cannabis growing.

Then she began working for other growers in Michigan, learning the ins and outs of the growing and production of cannabis.

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Bonnie is one of those smaller growers.

She was working two jobs — one in sales, the other in service — when she decided to do a professional 180-degree turn, winding up in the cannabis industry after taking a leap and driving to California in 2015 to trim cannabis on a mountaintop farm for a month.

“It was like a whole new world opened up,” Bonnie says. “It became like a whole new lifestyle. I realized I could do what I loved for a living.”

Three years ago she found someone willing to give her the reins of a full-time cannabis grow operation, where she currently tends up to 72 plants. Since then, she’s seen about a 60 percent increase in business, she says, and she recently expanded her indoor grow capacity by 700 square feet.

“The more you grow, the more your knowledge expands and the more integrated you become in the cannabis farming culture,” she says. “We learn together and look out for each other.”

Bonnie, who comes from a farming family, grew up in a conservative area of the region but has seen how deep the cannabis culture has dug in here, in places one might not expect.

“For years, I sat next to this one guy at the church my family goes to,” she says. “Then he told me he was a grower too. I didn’t expect that one.”

He has several stories of close calls. He saw helicopters searching for his marijuana as they hovered over fields where he was growing it. He had cops behind him while he was driving in vehicles with trunks full of cannabis. One day Justin saw a farmer in a combine cutting down corn — and Justin’s mixed-in pot — earlier than expected.

“I ran out there with a pair of loppers, a tarp, and cut down 15 plants in just a few minutes,” Justin says. “These aren’t daisies.

When they get big, they don’t have stems — they have trunks.”

No grower is the same, and every cannabis farmer thinks their way is the right way, Bonnie says. “They’re all right," she says.

"What matters most is that you are not just doing it for the money, but that you’re also growing for benevolent reasons too.”

Studies have shown that marijuana has therapeutic benefits, including lessening chronic pain, helping people get restful sleep, and easing discomfort in a person’s last days with many people choosing it as a natural alternative to synthetic prescription drugs.

When Bonnie looks toward the future, she says the sky is the limit in how far the cannabis industry can go, especially since many growers imagine marijuana will be federally legal before the decade is out.

“There is no ceiling” to the market, she says.

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of Southwest Michigan

From illegal to legal Another grower, Justin, has seen the cannabis industry change in Southwest Michigan over the past 40 years. Now 62, he began growing marijuana clandestinely when he was just 16, tossing seeds into cornfields in central Van Buren County so the cannabis would be hidden as it grew.

“As soon as I came up with a plan, I started,” he says. “And I have never stopped since. Back then, it was very illegal to grow, and I didn’t tell anyone. It was a total guerrilla grow.”

Southwest Michigan is an ideal place to grow cannabis because its climate is “not too hot, not too cold” during the growing season and because loads of land here are already zoned for agriculture, Justin says.

Justin, like Bonnie, came from a farming family, so he had access to farm fields and knew the harvest schedules of the fields around his home. He grew a little more than three pounds of marijuana his first year, taking most of it for his own use.

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with the

If the pot would have been found, Justin says, “I would have been in the papers.”

He became good at hiding his plants. But the thing about cannabis is that even if you can’t see it, it can still be detected. One year, after a bumper crop, Justin ran out of drying space and had to use the attic of his home.

At the time, his wife had no idea he was a cannabis grower.

“She asked me, ‘What the hell is that smell?’” he says. “Well, she figured it out pretty quick.”

And while Justin is now licensed to grow medical marijuana, there are plenty of other folks growing pot for the illicit, or “black,” market. When Justin was selling pot in his early 20s, it was illegal and selling for about $350 a pound, he says. Today, depending on the strain, a pound of cannabis can go for as much as $2,500 on the black market.

Even with legal cannabis dispensaries all over Southwest Michigan, especially in Kalamazoo County, the vast majority of cannabis sold in the state is on the black market. Of the $3.1 billion of cannabis that was sold in the state last year, only about $1 billion was sold at licensed facilities, according to the Michigan Association of Cannabis Manufacturers. The association also reports that one in five Michigan residents used cannabis last year, a 75 percent increase since 2010.

Illegal transactions raise concerns about the safety of unregulated marijuana and about untaxed sales. From the state’s legal sales, the industry generated about $169 million in taxes and fees last year, according to the association.

By the book Greg Dandino is going by the book when it comes to setting up his grow operation.

Dandino's Flyover Farms will be one of region’s largest legal commercial growers when it opens its indoor operations at the end of this year. It plans to begin outdoor growing in the spring. Dandino could have set up his commercial cannabis operation

An aerial view of Flyover Farms, a cannabis growing operation that will yield approximately 14,000 plants a year.

anywhere in the state, but he purchased property in Van Buren County’s Arlington Township in 2019 because officials there were among the first in the state to develop an ordinance for large-scale commercial growing facilities. The proximity to good, flat farmland, irrigation infrastructure and a seasonal workforce familiar with farming were also significant draws.

Flyover Farms is one of the only commercial cannabis farms in the state to grow marijuana both indoors and outdoors, Dandino says. A 20,000-square-foot structure is the centerpiece of the farm, which also includes 12,000 square feet of greenhouse space and 15 acres of land for outdoor cultivation. Dandino is licensed to grow up to 14,000 plants and plans to create 15 full-time jobs, plus 80 to 100 seasonal jobs when work ramps up at certain times of the year.

“This area is advantageous due to its agricultural past,” Dandino says. “I looked in the Thumb area, other places east of here.

This was the ideal spot.”

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TheArts Spotlighting greater Kalamazoo's arts community

Well-Intentioned White People Nov. 4–7 Kalamazoo College Festival Playhouse

In the play Well-Intentioned White People, when a Black college professor experiences a racial incident she'd rather forget, there's pressure from the white people in her world of influence, including her roommate and her boss, to “do something.”

The play, by Rachel Lynett, has been described as a poignant and often surprisingly funny look at race, friendship and the “good intentions” of those who attempt to deal with discrimination not directed at them. It will be staged this month by Kalamazoo College’s theater organization.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Nov. 4–6 and 2 p.m. Nov. 7 in Balch Playhouse, in the Light Fine Arts Building, 129 Thompson St. Tickets are $10–$15 and can be purchased by calling 337-7333 or online at festivalplayhouse.kzoo.edu.

Hurt Village

Nov. 12–14 Face Off Theatre Company The play Hurt Village was inspired by a true story of the gentrification and demolition of one of Memphis, Tennessee's, most notorious housing projects.

The play, penned by Katori Hall (who also wrote The Mountaintop) and being staged by Kalamazoo’s Face Off Theatre Company, follows a 13-year-old aspiring rapper and her family who are preparing to move, when her father unexpectedly returns from a tour of duty in Iraq.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Nov. 12 and 13 and 2 p.m. Nov. 14 at Dormouse Theatre, 1030 Portage St. For ticket prices and more information, visit faceofftheatre.com.

26 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

THEATER

Murder for Two: Holiday Edition Nov. 19–Dec.12 Farmers Alley Theatre

Farmers Alley Theatre has a twisted way of celebrating the holidays: a murder mystery that's also a musical comedy that's also a two-man show.

Murder for Two: Holiday Edition is a reprisal of the show Murder for Two, performed in 2016 at Farmers Alley. In this holiday version of the play, Brandon Lambert stars as Detective Marcus Moscowicz, who tries to determine which of the 10 guests/suspects, all played

by Joe Kinosian, killed Great American Novelist Arthur Whitney at his own surprise birthday party.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m.

Sundays. Tickets are $15–$44 and can be purchased by calling 3432727 or online at farmersalleytheatre.com.

Significant Other

Nov. 13–21 Western’s University Theatre The complex and changing dynamics between a gay man and his tight circle of female friends is explored in Significant Other, to be staged this month at Western Michigan University’s Williams Theatre.

The story follows Jordan Berman, who would love to be in love but finds that’s easier said than done. Until he meets Mr. Right, he wards off lonely nights with his trio of close girlfriends and discovers that the only thing harder than finding love is supporting the loved ones around you when they find love.

Show times are 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13, 18, 19, 20 and 21 and 2 p.m. Nov. 14. Tickets are $6–$20 and can be purchased by calling 387-6222 or online at wmich.edu/theatre. Per WMU policy, patrons attending the show must wear masks and social distance. The play is not for audiences younger than 16.

The 1940s Radio Hour Nov. 26–Dec. 12 Kalamazoo Civic Theatre

Staging a feel-good show with feel-good music is how the Civic Theatre is returning from its 20-month pandemic hiatus.

Using popular songs from the era, The1940s Radio Hour portrays the final holiday broadcast of the Mutual Manhattan Variety Cavalcade on the New York radio station WOV in December 1942.

The musical features colorful characters, comedy, big dance numbers and such standards as "I Got a Gal in Kalamazoo," "Love is Here to Stay," "Blue Moon," "Strike Up the Band" and "I'll be Seeing You." Keep an eye out for former Encore staffer and regular Civic performer Ron Dundon as Pops Bailey.

Tickets are $17–$28 and can be purchased by calling 343-1313 or by visiting kazoocivic.com.

For more theater events, see the Theater section of our Events of Note, on page 33. w w w.encorekalamazoo.com | 27

TheArts Federico Colli Nov. 14 Wellspring Theater

Federico Colli, a pianist praised

by Gramophone magazine for the "crystalline brilliance and translucence that takes you to the heart of everything he plays," will perform at 4 p.m. Nov. 14 in downtown Kalamazoo.

Colli was born in Brescia, Italy, and came to prominence after winning the Salzburg Mozart Competition in 2011 and the Gold Medal at the Leeds International Piano Competition in 2012.

He is performing in Kalamazoo as part of The Gilmore's 2021 Rising Stars Series, and his program will include works by Scarlatti, Mozart, Schubert and Bach.

His performance can be seen in person or online; tickets for the inperson performance are $25, or $7 for students. Tickets for the virtual concert are available on a "name your own price" basis. To purchase tickets, visit thegilmore.org.

Amir ElSaffar Nov. 8 KNAC/First Baptist Church

Described as “one of the most promising figures in jazz today” by the Chicago Tribune, trumpeter Amir ElSaffar will perform at 7:30 p.m. in the sanctuary of the Kalamazoo Nonprofit Advocacy Coalition (KNAC) building, 315 W. Michigan Ave. A recipient of the Doris Duke Performing Artist Award and a 2018 U.S. Artist Fellow, ElSaffar is a cross-cultural musician, combining contemporary jazz techniques with ornaments idiomatic to Arabic music not typically heard on the trumpet.

His performance is presented by the Connecting Chords Music Festival.

Tickets are $5–$20 with a pay-what-you-can option and are available for purchase at ccmusicfest.com or at the door. Masks will be required for all patrons.

For more music events, see the Music section of our Events of Note, on page 33.

28 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

St. Lawrence String Quartet Nov. 19 Dalton Center Recital Hall

Known for creating concert experiences that are "intellectually exciting and emotionally alive," the St. Lawrence String Quartet will perform works of Haydn, Korngold and Franck at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 19 on the Western Michigan University campus.

Described by the Los Angeles Times as bringing "dramatic fire" and “a hint of rock ’n’ roll energy” to its performances, the quartet is renowned for the intensity of its performances and the breadth of its repertoire. The Canadian foursome, established in Toronto in 1989, has made prize-winning recordings of music by Schumann, Tchaikovsky and Golijov, earning two Grammy nominations and being appointed ensemble-in-residence at Stanford University in 1998.

The quartet’s local performance is a presentation of Fontana Chamber Arts. Tickets are $30 for general admission, or $15 for students, and available online at fontanamusic.org.

MUSIC saje ¨

Nov. 5 Dalton Center Recital Hall The Grammy-nominated säje — a four-woman vocal group that has been named Western Michigan University's 2021 Jazz Masters Artist — will give a concert at 8 p.m. Nov. 5 on Western’s campus.

Rhyming with the word “beige,” säje is an artistic acronym for the first names of Sara Gazarek, Amanda Taylor, Johnaye Kendrick and Erin Bentlage, four vocalists/composers with notable solo careers who have banded together to perform original material and reimagined arrangements that cross a number of styles. Kendrick is a 2005 graduate of the WMU School of Music.

Their performance will include collaborations with WMU's Advanced Jazz Ensemble, Gold Company and the Western Jazz Collective. Tickets are $15, or $5 for students, and can be purchased online at wmumusic.ludus.com.

Tom Wopat

Nov. 5–7 Barn Theatre One of the most beloved and successful of Barnies, Tom Wopat will help the Barn Theatre celebrate its 75th anniversary with a weekend of shows Nov. 5–7.

Wopat was a Barn Theatre apprentice (affectionately known as a Barnie) in 1976 and 1977, before going on to star as Luke Duke in the 1980s television show The Dukes of Hazzard and as a Tony-nominated performer on Broadway. As a singer/songwriter, Wopat has recorded six albums. He has returned to perform at The Barn many times.

Show times are 7 p.m. Nov. 5 and 6 and 2 p.m. Nov. 7. Tickets are $48–$58 and can be purchased by calling 731-4121 or online at barntheatreschool.org.

Arcomusical

Nov. 20 Kalamazoo Public Library If you're not familiar with the berimbau, a single-string bow instrument well known in Brazil, you can hear it and learn more about it when Arcomusical performs at 2 p.m. Nov. 20 at the Kalamazoo Public Library's Central location, 315 S. Rose St. The sextet’s performance, presented by the Connecting Chords Music Festival, will feature this instrument that originated in subSaharan Africa and was brought to Brazil through the trans-Atlantic slave trade. The berimbau became the musical accompaniment for the Afro-Brazilian capoeira, a martial art the combines dance, acrobatics and movement.

Arcomusical’s performance is free, but donations will be accepted at the door. For more information, visit ccmusicfest.com. w w w.encorekalamazoo.com | 29

TheArts

VISUAL ARTS

OPENING THIS MONTH

Sweet 16 Exhibition Nov. 5–Jan. 14 Kalamazoo Book Arts Center

The pandemic forced the Kalamazoo Book Arts Center to cancel plans to commemorate its 15th anniversary last year, so the organization is making up for it by observing its 16th instead.

The Sweet 16 Exhibition will feature works by KBAC artists and colleagues who have been a part of the Kalamazoo Book Arts Center’s growth to a fully equipped, internationally recognized center for the study of book arts, including papermaking, printing, bookbinding and creative writing.

The exhibition will be displayed in the KBAC Gallery, at 326 W. Kalamazoo Ave., Suite 103A. The hours are 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday– Friday or by appointment. For more information, visit kalbookarts.org.

Art Hop

Nov. 5 Downtown Kalamazoo This free monthly event, which runs from 6–8 p.m., features a variety of artists' work in various locations in downtown Kalamazoo as well as live music and the chance to visit downtown businesses.

The Arts Council of Greater Kalamazoo has an app that provides a guide and map of Art Hop sites, information about participating artists, and walking directions. For more information or to access the app, visit kalamazooarts.org.

ONGOING EXHIBITIONS

Safer at Home: Pandemic Paintings Through Nov. 14 Monroe-Brown Gallery, WMU

It's a David Small World Through Nov. 30 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Ginny Ruffner: Reforestation of the Imagination Through Dec. 5 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

Todd Gray: Crossing the Waters of Space, Time and History Through Jan. 2 Kalamazoo Institute of Arts

For more visual art exhibitions and events, see the Visual Arts section of our Events of Note, on page 34.

30 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

DANCE

State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine Nov. 28 State Theatre

The 55-member State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine will present the classic fairy tale Cinderella at 3 p.m. Nov. 28 at the Kalamazoo State Theatre.

Set to Sergei Prokofiev’s music, with Vladimir Vasiliev’s choreography, this full-scale production follows the story of a young maiden who finds her Prince Charming.

The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine is an internationally recognized dance company composed of the country's best dancers and graduates of prestigious Ukrainian and world choreography schools.

Tickets are $38–$68 and available at kazoostate.com or the theater's box office, 404 S. Burdick St. Proof of Covid-19 vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test is required for entry.

COMEDY Crawlspace Eviction Nov. 19–20 Crawlspace Comedy Theatre

Kalamazoo's homegrown improv troupe Crawlspace Eviction will perform its improvisational and sketch comedy at 8 p.m. Nov. 19–20 at its theater inside the Kalamazoo Nonprofit Advocacy Coalition (KNAC) building, 315 W. Michigan Ave. Crawlspace Eviction has brought its short- and long-form improv and sketch comedy to Kalamazoo audiences since 2003. Current troupe members include Bannon Backhus, Brian Duguay, Lizzy Honoway, Dann Sytsma and Tara Sytsma.

Tickets are $10, and proof of vaccination against Covid-19 will be required to attend. For more information, visit crawlspacecomedy.com.

T heArts

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After Rain, November Fog over the wrestling river. Light whispers between cedar and pine.

Up on the bluff, it’s a cloudy day but I climb down the bank into smoke. In the haze above rapids low-flowing water mumbles to overwintering birds, and I breathe in the last of November’s mild days.

Ferns browned and collapsed, yet here is a wave of new-growth needles on evergreens. A moist world, wet leaves underfoot.

Here are half-eaten corncobs from the squirrel feeder. Across the river, white-fleshed birches among the green, slight limbs longing skyward.

The text for the day is reach in this chapel—the best at yearning toward the sun will see the decade out.

November rains bless these woods.

One more drink before the dry cold comes.

— Lynn Pattison Pattison is a Kalamazoo poet who composed this poem at a river cabin in northern Michigan. It appears in her new chapbook, Matryoshka Houses (Kelsay Press, 2020). She is the author of three other poetry collections: Tesla's Daughter (March St. Press); Walking Back the Cat (Bright Hill Press) and Light That Sounds Like Breaking (Mayapple Press). Pattison has been nominated for the Pushcart Prize numerous times and for inclusion in Best Micro-fiction and Best of the Net.

ENCORE EVENTS 12, Farmers Alley Theatre, 221 Farmers Alley, 343–2727, farmersalleytheatre.com.

Please Note: Due to the COVID–19 virus, some of these events may have been cancelled after press time. Please check with the venue and organizations for up–to–date information.

PERFORMING ARTS THEATER Plays

Sweat — A group of friends and co-workers find themselves pitted against each other in a heart-wrenching fight to stay afloat, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 29 & Nov. 4, 5 & 6, 2 p.m. Oct. 31, Williams Theatre, WMU, 387–6222, wmich.edu/theatre.

Well-Intentioned White People — After experiencing a racial incident, college professor Cass wants to forget about it and move on with her life, but her white colleagues push her to “do something” about it, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 4–6, 2 p.m. Nov. 7, Festival Playhouse, Light Fine Arts Building, 129 Thompson St., festivalplayouse.kzoo.edu.

Hurt Village — The story of a 13-yearold aspiring rapper and her family who are preparing to move when her father unexpectedly returns from a tour of duty in Iraq, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 12 & 13, 2 p.m. Nov. 14, Face Off Theatre Company, Dormouse Theatre, 1030 Portage St. #3008, faceofftheatre.com.

Significant Other — Jordan Berman would love to be in love but discovers that what's harder than finding love is supporting the loved ones around you when they do find love, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 13, 18, 19, 20 & 21, 2 p.m.

Nov. 14, Williams Theatre, WMU, 387–6222, wmich.edu/theatre.

Mystery Science Theater 3000 Live: Time Bubble Tour — Join movie-riffing robots, Tom Servo, Crow, and GPC and friends as they watch the 1985 film Making Contact, 7 p.m. Nov. 16, State Theatre, 404 S. Burdick St., kazoostate.com.

Musicals

Guys & Dolls: A Musical Fable of Broadway — A lightly staged production of Frank Loesser’s musical comedy, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 6, presented by the Battle Creek Symphony, W.K. Kellogg Auditorium, 50 W. Van Buren St., Battle Creek, 269–963–1911, battlecreeksymphony.org.

Murder for Two: Holiday Edition — A musical comedy in which 10 guests at a surprise birthday party are suspects when the guest of honor is killed, Nov. 19–Dec.

The 1940s Radio Hour — A broken-down New York radio station is preparing its final broadcast and a seasonal treat for the troops overseas in December 1942, featuring songs of the era, Nov. 26–Dec. 12, Civic Theatre, 329 S. Park St., 343–1313, kazoocivic.com.

DANCE

Cinderella — The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine presents a two-act performance of the classic fairy tale, 3 p.m. Nov. 28, State Theatre, 404 S. Burdick St., kazoostate.com.

MUSIC Bands & Solo Artists Bell’s Eccentric Cafe Back Room Concerts — Drink Their Blood, Nov. 4; Passafire with Indubious, Nov. 5; Protomartyr, Nov. 12; Dixon’s Violin, Nov. 13; all shows begin at 8:30 p.m., Bell’s Back Room, 355 E. Kalamazoo Ave., 382–2332, bellsbeer.com.

Ledisi — A performance by the Grammy Award-winning R&B singer, with special guest Kenyon Dixon, 8 p.m. Nov. 4, State Theatre, kazoostate.com.

1964 The Tribute — A Beatles tribute band, 8 p.m. Nov. 5, State Theatre, kazoostate.com.

Tom Wopat & Band — Tony-nominated Broadway actor and star of 1970s TV show Dukes of Hazzard takes the stage, 7 p.m.

Nov. 5 & 6, 2 p.m. Nov. 7, Barn Theatre, 13351 W. M-96, Augusta, 731–4121, barntheatreschool. org.

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band —American roots band with 25 studio albums and three Grammys, 8 p.m. Nov. 12, State Theatre, kazoostate.com.

Wizards of Winter: The Christmas Dream Tour — Featuring former members of the rock bands The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Def Leppard, Rainbow, Alice Cooper, Blue Oyster Cult and Broadway, 8 p.m. Nov. 19, State Theatre, kazoostate.com.

Kalamazoo Academy of Rock & Matt Giraud — Celebrating KAR’s 10th anniversary, the academy’s bands will play in the afternoon, starting at 2 p.m., and Matt Giraud will headline at night, Nov. 20, State Theatre, kazoostate.com.

Orchestra, Chamber, Jazz, Vocal & More Western Winds — Woodwind instrumental group, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 3, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, 387–2300. säje — Grammy-nominated vocal group and WMU 2021 Jazz Masters Artist, along with WMU’s Advanced Jazz Ensemble, Gold

Company and Western Jazz Collective, 8 p.m.

Nov. 5, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, wmich.edu/events.

Chris Van Hof — Trombonist and WMU alum, 4 p.m. Nov. 6, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, 387–2300.

Wanderlust — Performance by the Kalamazoo Junior Symphony Orchestra, 4 p.m. Nov. 7, Chenery Auditorium, 714 S. Westnedge Ave., 349–7557, kjso.org.

Amir ElSaffar — Trumpeter combining jazz and Arabic music, presented by the Connecting Chords Music Festival, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 8, KNAC building, 315 W. Michigan Ave., ccmusicfest. com.

Mozart’s Don Giovanni — Presented by WMU Opera and University Symphony Orchestra, 8 p.m. Nov. 12, 3 p.m. Nov. 14, Miller Auditorium, WMU, 387–2300.

Federico Colli — Italian pianist performs as part of the Gilmore Rising Stars Series, 4 p.m.

Nov. 14, Wellspring Theater, 359 S. Kalamazoo Mall, virtual and in-person tickets available, 342–1166, thegilmore.org.

Western Wind Quintet — 7:30 p.m. Nov. 17, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, 387–2300.

St. Lawrence String Quartet — Canadian string quartet, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 19, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, 382–7774, fontanamusic.org.

Raymond Returns — KSO Music Director Emeritus Raymond Harvey returns to the podium with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7 and Stravinsky’s The Firebird, 7:30 p.m. Nov. 19, Miller Auditorium, WMU, kalamazoosymphony.com.

Arcomusical — Afro-Brazilian berimbau musical bow ensemble, 2 p.m. Nov. 20, Van Deusen Room, Central Library, ccmusicfest.com.

Big Band Swing Concert — University Jazz Orchestra and University Jazz Lab Band, 8 p.m.

Nov. 20, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, 387–2300.

University Wind Symphony and Symphonic Band — 3 p.m. Nov. 21, Miller Auditorium, WMU, 387–2300.

Western Horn Choir — 7:30 p.m. Nov. 23, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, 387–2300.

Greensky Bluegrass — Kalamazoo's nationally recognized bluegrass band returns, 8:30 p.m.

Nov. 26 & 27, State Theatre, kazoostate.com.

Jazz Combo Showcase — 5 p.m. Nov. 29, Dalton Center Recital Hall, WMU, 387–2300.

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COMEDY Crawlspace Eviction — Performing shortform, long-form and sketch comedy, 8 p.m.

Nov. 19 & 20, Crawlspace Theatre, 315 W. Michigan Ave., crawlspacecomedy.com.

explore gendered power dynamics in largeformat digital prints and surreal sculptural objects, through Nov. 14, Monroe-Brown Gallery.

Kalamazoo Institute of Arts 314 S. Park St., 349–7775, kiarts.org

Gardens in the Art & Life of David Small and Sarah Stewart — Celebrating the works of Michigan-based artists and authors David Small and Sarah Stewart, through Nov. 14, Netzorg and Kerr Gallery.

Exhibitions

Other Venues

It’s a David Small World — The process of creating a children’s book explored through illustrations by Kalamazoo-area artist and Caldecott Medal winner David Small, through Nov. 29.

Art Hop — Displays of art at various locations, 6–8 p.m. Nov. 5, downtown Kalamazoo, 342– 5059, kalamazooarts.org.

VISUAL ARTS

Poets in Print: Martha Silano and Donika Kelly — Virtual event via Zoom, 7 p.m. Nov. 6, Ginny Ruffner: Reforestation of the kalbookarts.org.

Imagination — A reality-bending presentation Sweet 16 Exhibition — Celebrating the that fuses glass blowing, augmented reality Kalamazoo Book Arts Center’s 16th anniversary and drawing by using an app, through Dec. 5. with artists and colleagues who have been Todd Gray: Crossing the Waters of Space, part of the organization, Nov. 5–Jan. 14, 326 Time and History — With found frames and W. Kalamazoo Ave, Suite 103A, 373–4938, stacked images from Gray’s private archive, kalbookarts.org. this exhibition considers the impacts of LIBRARY & LITERARY EVENTS colonialism on Black consciousness, through Kalamazoo Public Library Jan. 2.

553–7800, kpl.gov Unveiling American Genius — Abstract and contemporary works from the KIA’s Page Turners Book Club — Zoom discussion permanent collection, emphasizing stories of Lincoln in the Bardo, by George Saunders, that African American, Latinx and other artists 6:30 p.m. Nov. 1; registration required. have told about our cultures, art and history, Reading Race Group — Zoom discussion of through 2022.

Such a Fun Age, by Kiley Reid, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 9; Events

registration required.

Contemporary Luminism: Realism in the Modern Context — Zoom presentation by landscape painter Brooks Anderson on his artistic development and experience of translating atmosphere and natural phenomena, 10 a.m. Nov. 10, RSVP to artleaguekalamazoo@gmail.com.

Mary Calletto Rife Youth Literature Seminar — Online event featuring authors Gene Luen Yang, Betsy Bird and Meg Medina, 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Nov. 12; registration required.

Book Discussion: Parable of the Sower — Online discussion of the book by Octavia Butler, 2 p.m. Nov. 17.

2021 Kirk Newman Art School Holiday Art Sale — Featuring works by students and faculty, 5–8 p.m. Nov. 18, members only; noon–8 p.m. Nov. 19, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Nov. 20, open to the public.

Richmond Center for Visual Arts Western Michigan University, 387–2436, wmich.edu/art

Safer at Home: Pandemic Paintings — Works by Esther Pearl Watson reflecting pandemic experiences, through Nov. 14, Monroe-Brown Gallery.

Life in Kalamazoo — The first in a series of facilitated conversations about life in our community, 11 a.m. Nov. 13; Van Deusen Room, Central Library, 315 S. Rose St.; registration required.

Dance and Movement with Heather Mitchell — Rootead’s Mitchell will lead three sessions of movement combining Zumba and dance, 6 p.m. Nov. 15, Eastwood Branch, 112 Gayle Ave.

Kalamazoo County ID Mobile Unit Event — 2–6 p.m. Nov. 9.

Friends of the Library Book Sale — 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Nov. 13.

Mystery Book Club — 4 p.m. Nov. 15.

Portage District Library 329–4544, portagedistrictlibrary.info The library is temporarily offering services at 5528 Portage Road while the building at 300 Library Lane is closed for renovations.

International Mystery Book Discussion — Discussion of Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line, by Deepa Anappara, 7 p.m. Nov. 11; registration required.

Open for Discussion — Drop-in discussion of Hidden Valley Road, by Robert Kolker, 10:30 a.m. Nov. 16; registration required.

Documentary and Donuts — Watch The Russian Five and enjoy locally made donuts, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 17; registration required.

The Legacy and Memory of Emmett Louis Till — Retired Portage Public Schools history teacher Jim Herm will share his research into the post-Civil War South, the legacy of Emmett Till, and the start of the Civil Rights Movement, 6:30 p.m. Nov. 11; registration required.

Richland Community Library 8951 Park St., 629–9085, richlandlibrary.org Short(est) Story Contest — Submit your short story (one–two sentences or 20 words) to the competition between Nov. 2 and 13; voting held Nov. 16–27; winners announced Dec. 1.

Team Game Night: Family Feud — 7 p.m.

Nov. 11.

Books with Friends Book Club — Zoom discussion of The Sweetness of Water, by Nathan Harris, 7 p.m. Nov. 18; registration required.

MUSEUMS Kalamazoo Valley Museum 230 N. Rose St., 373–7990, kalamazoomuseum.org

Classics Revisited — Discussion of Love in the Time of Cholera, by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, 2:30 p.m. Nov. 18, Boardroom, Central Library.

All About Buttons! — A special exhibit featuring collections of local Michigan Button Society members, through Dec. 31.

Urban Fiction Book Club — Discussion of A Dream Worth Having, by Nichole DeCari, 6 p.m. Nov. 30, Alma Powell Branch, 1000 W. Paterson St.; registration required.

Expanding Scott’s World: A Journey of Autism Through Art — Artworks of Michigan artist Scott Yukio Fergus that reflect his personal experiences with autism, through Jan. 2.

Parchment Community Library Wild Corporation — Mimi Kato’s work 401 S. Riverview Drive, 343–7747, combining photography and performance to parchmentlibrary.org

34 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

Parchment Book Group — 6 p.m. Nov. 1.

Beth Bradfish Sound Sculpture — Manipulate wire-mesh screens and sounds for an auditory experience that blends arts and sciences.

NATURE Kalamazoo Nature Center 7000 N. Westnedge Ave., 381–1574, naturecenter.org Native American Storytelling — Enjoy the traditional oral storytelling of Native American storyteller Larry Plamondon, 2 p.m. Nov. 7 & 21; registration required.

Kellogg Bird Sanctuary 12685 East C Ave., Augusta, 671–2510, birdsanctuary@kbs.msu.edu Trails and Tales: Migration — Pages from How Do Birds Find Their Way?, by Roma Gans, and Trumpeter Swan: The World’s Largest Waterbird, by Leon Gra, will be posted along the sanctuary's paved path for families to read as they walk, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. through Nov. 28.

Fall Fly-In — Learn about waterfowl migration, 1–4 p.m. Nov. 7.

Birds and Coffee Chat Online — Grab your morning beverage and learn about a new bird species in Southwest Michigan, 10 a.m. Nov. 10; registration required.

Guided Birding Hike — Join sanctuary staff for a guided morning birding hike on the grounds, 9–10:30 a.m. Nov. 20.

Other Venues Kalamazoo Astronomical Society Online Viewing — Enjoy the wonder of the universe through the “eyes” of the KAS Remote Telescope located in southeastern Arizona,

8:30–10:30 p.m. Nov. 6, cloud date Nov. 7, registration online, kasonline.org.

p.m. Nov. 6, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, kalamazooreptileexpo.com.

Ranger Hike: Fall Colors — Take in the autumn colors of trees and learn more about the process trees go through to prepare for winter, 2 p.m. Nov. 14, South Westnedge Park, 9010 S. Westnedge Ave., portagemi.gov.

Painting in the Park — Guided painting session with light refreshments, 6 p.m. Nov. 11, Schrier Park, 850 W. Osterhout Ave., portagemi.gov.

MISCELLANEOUS Dia de Los Muertos — Traditional Mexican event to remember and honor loved ones through music, food and the construction of altars, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Nov. 1, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 2900 Lake St., elconciliokzoo.org.

Kalamatopia — Holiday outdoor market featuring local and Michigan artisans, 5–8:30 p.m. Nov. 5, North Kalamazoo Mall by the Radisson Plaza Hotel, kalamatopia.com.

Kalamazoo Numismatic Club Annual Fall Coin Show — Buy, sell and trade coins, paper money and memorabilia, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Nov. 6, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, North Room, 381–8669.

Kalamazoo Farmers Market — 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Saturdays, through Nov. 20, Mayors’ Riverfront Park, 251 Mills St., pfcmarkets.com.

A Walking Tour of Downtown Kalamazoo Breweries — Meet colorful personalities and flavors behind Kalamazoo’s beer culture, noon–4 p.m. Nov. 6 & 20, beginning at Old Burdick’s Bar & Grill, 100 W. Michigan Ave., 350–4598, westmibeertours.com.

Kalamazoo Reptile & Exotic Pet Expo — Buy, sell or trade a variety of reptiles, amphibians, small mammals and other exotic pets, plus supplies & food, 10 a.m.–3

For This

Virtual 2021 Summit on Racism — With the theme “Reigniting Racial Equity in our Community,” hosted by the Society for History and Racial Equity (SHARE), Nov. 12–14; register at sharekazoo.org.

West Michigan Harvest Cluster Dog Show — More than 140 AKC recognized breeds compete in this event, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Nov. 12, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Nov. 13–15, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 616–600–1578.

Makers Tour: A Walking Tour of a Downtown Kalamazoo Winery, Distillery and Brewery — Spotlighting craft beverage makers in downtown Kalamazoo, including local spirits and wine and craft breweries, noon–4 p.m. Nov. 13 & 27, Kalamazoo Beer Exchange, 211 E. Water St., 350–4598, westmibeertours.com.

The Holiday Craft Show — Annual arts and craft show, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Nov. 20, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Nov. 21, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 903–5820.

Holiday Market — Unique and handcrafted gifts being sold by local artists and artisans throughout the Kellogg Manor House, noon–5 p.m. Saturdays, starting Nov. 20, Kellogg Manor House, 3700 E. Gull Lake Drive, 269–671–2160.

Kalamazoo Antique Toy Show — Antique, vintage and collectible toys, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Nov. 27, Kalamazoo County Expo Center, 366–1314.

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ENCORE BACK STORY Mike Artis (continued from page 38)

I did come to see a production at The Civic when I was in the fourth grade. I saw The Snow Queen, and I thought, “I could do that.”

What brought you to your involvement in The Civic?

Friends encouraged me to audition. The first show I thought about auditioning for was a summer theater production. I walked into the theater and heard three or four people audition, and I walked back out. I had to get more courage up because being in theater is not the easiest thing. I did a few other theater productions and came back to The Civic and auditioned for Here’s Love in 1990.

How did you transition from acting to stage managing?

I volunteer stage-managed from 1996 until 2005, usually managing two productions a season, which gave me a good understanding of the workings of theater. In 2005, The Civic was looking for a production stage manager. The interview process was very daunting, and I was lucky enough to get the job.

Crew members wear all black during shows, but you wear a red bandanna. Why? Some high school apprentices working with me on a show started calling me their "sensei" (a Japanese word for teacher) and gave me a bandanna that had “sensei” written on it. So when I would stagemanage a show, I felt like I needed a bandanna, so wearing the red bandannas just came out of that. I still have the sensei bandanna, but it’s old enough that I can’t wear it now. Many things that I’ve done as a stage manager have come about from the youth I have met. They are the reason I always say something three times.

With the Covid-19 shutdown, did you worry that the theater would not make it back?

The Kalamazoo Civic and all of the theaters in Kalamazoo will make it back because they are such a big part of the community. People love to see art. They love to see their friends in shows. We have to

make it safer, so it may look different, but it will make it back. It will take time. We have to give people time to figure out what makes them feel safe and what will make them feel like they can participate in things again.

As director of volunteers, what are your priorities?

Hopefully, I can make some differences that will affect the volunteers and make them feel welcome, included, safe, secure and appreciated. Theater is for everyone, and I hope people will not limit themselves regarding how they want to be involved. We have different volunteer activities at The Civic where one can volunteer just a couple of hours or opportunities that can go on for months.

What has been your favorite show at The Civic?

Onstage, I really enjoyed being part of The Full Monty. I also loved Jesus Christ Superstar. For backstage, Avenue Q was a bucket-list item of mine. We were the first regional community theater in the country to do it, and it was a thrill. I got to work with a professional puppeteer who came in and worked with the cast, and it was amazing to see how much goes into a production with puppets.

When you go see a show, what do you see?

A musical. I’m a happy-go-lucky musical kind of guy. But I’ll go see anything. Truthfully, I’m going to watch my friends and help support them in the theater a lot of times.

Besides theater, what are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about family and friends. I’m passionate about all art. I paint landscapes on occasion, but not as much as I’d like to.

I’m also passionate about my volunteer work with Gryphon Place and about helping people who are having difficulties in life. Having two brothers who have committed suicide, I definitely have a passion for Gryphon Place. I get out there and help when I can. I want to make sure that everybody feels safe in who they are.

— Interview by Julie Smith, edited for length and clarity

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BACK STORY ENCORE

Mike Artis

Director of Volunteers, Kalamazoo Civic Theatre F

or more than two decades, Mike Artis has been a familiar face to anyone involved in the Kalamazoo Civic Theatre. As the community theater's longtime stage manager, he has interacted with nearly every volunteer who graced the stage or worked behind it.

And when the lights flood The Civic stage this month after 20 months of pandemic-induced darkness, Artis will be there, but he won’t be "running the show." After serving as stage manager since 1997, Artis has taken on a new role as The Civic's director of volunteers, recruiting and managing nearly 1,000 volunteers who make theater magic happen each season.

"Volunteers are my first love," says the 51-year-old. "I love teaching. I love being able to know just about everybody that walks through the doors. I hope to stage-manage here and there, but change is good. " What was your first experience in theater?

I’ve been interested in theater for as long as I can remember, but what really got me excited was my elementary music teacher, Virginia Agne (at Gilkey Elementary School, in Plainwell). She did a musical every year. I started in the third grade by dancing in Charlotte’s Web, then I sang a solo in Tom Sawyer, and then I played Oliver Twist.

I really enjoyed doing those.

Brian Powers

(continued on page 37)

38 | ENCORE NOVEMBER 2021

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